Ancient Egyptian Turquoise Faience Wedjat Amulet

£ 125.00

A fine Ancient Egyptian glazed turquoise faience amulet in the shape of a double-sided ‘wedjat-eye’, more commonly known as the ‘Eye of Horus’. The piece displays linear carvings demonstrating the different eye components, each holding its own value. The eyebrow, here rendered with faint oblique notches, represents thought; the pupil stands for sight; the triangle between the pupil is hearing, whereas the white of the eye is smell; the tail represents taste; and the teardrop is touch. The amulet is pierced longitudinally for suspension.

Date: Circa 6th Century BC
Period: Late Period
Condition: Fine condition.

SOLD

SKU: MG-139 Category: Tags: ,

The Egyptians wore amulets alongside other pieces of jewellery. They were decorative, but also served a practical purpose, being considered to bestow power and protection upon the wearer. Many of the amulets have been found inside the wrappings of mummies, as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife.

Horus was one of the most significant Ancient Egyptian deities, most commonly depicted with the head of a falcon, and the body of a man. He was a sun and moon deity, with his right eye thought to represent the sun and the left the moon. The eye of Horus, also known as ‘Wedjat’, was an ancient symbol of protection, particularly for the afterlife, and was also used to deflect evil. For this reason, it was often worn or hung on the deceased at burial. This symbol was highly influential in Egyptian life, with ancient sailors painting the image on the bow of their vessels to ward off evil.

To find out more about Ancient Egyptian amulets please see our relevant blog post: Egyptian Amulets and their Meanings: Ancient Egyptian Gods.

 

Weight 0.50 g
Dimensions L 1.3 x W 1 cm
Culture

Region

Egyptian Mythology

Faience

Reference: For a similar item, please see The British Museum, item 86.805